Market love

Ahhh Sunday morning's, provided you don't have to go to work there is usually a certain amount of love one feels on a Sunday morning. A lazy sleep in, a nice breakfast and a fun activity usually encompasses a normal Sunday morning for me, and last Sunday was no exception. I was in the mood for a good old fashioned market so I grabbed my olds and headed to the nearest Sunday Markets for my fix.

Petrie Town Markets welcomed me with open arms, hugging me with the scent of fairy floss, warming me with beautiful sunshine in a cloudless sky and filling me with Devonshire tea and fresh strawberries. I wandered from stall to stall, looking at antique suitcases, random bags of buttons, vintage vogue patterns, 50 cent fabric rolls, homemade pincushions and old fashioned lollies. I love markets for the variety on show, there really was something for everyone.

Starting with breakfast we feasted on homemade scones with jam and cream, then wandering over to the farmers section we picked up our weekly fruit and veg, then mum and I wandered into the numerous little home wares and fabric stores as my dad riffled through old rock vinyls looking for a classic.

I ended up coming home with a bag of goodies including some gorgeous white crushed silk (a steal at 50c for the half metre), two vintage vogue patterns ($3 each), gorgeous new homemade pin cushions (complete with sequined trim) and a bag of lollies to share amongst the family once we arrived home.

I think its one of those things that you always feel you don't have enough time for, so this weekend we're heading back as we only got half the market done before we had to rush home to organise the family Sunday roast lunch.

I wonder what I'll find this weekend. There's always treasure to be found, you just need to know what to look for.

Epic Ride, Epic Fashion Charity Night

Friday played host to my latest show; Epic Ride, Epic Fashion - a charity event looking to raise money for two very determined bike riders. The aim was to raise enough to secure the riders entries into the most intense bike ride I'd ever heard of (200kms in 2 days!)

I'd jumped on board after a friend of mine who was already involved told me about what these empowering women were trying to achieve and I wanted to be a part of it, provided I didn't have to get on a bike myself.

The show featured several different designers and boutiques and I loved every minute of it. The exposure was great and I always love doing shows for a good cause. There were plenty of hiccups along the way, the odd tantrum from models here and there and general disorganisation running chaos around frantic, panicked MC's but all in all it was a great night.

We had the usual "this doesn't fit me" drama and unfortunately, one model did almost lose her top on the runway. However I think when you contribute to something that has such an amazing cause behind it, it doesn't matter that we saw more of the models than we needed to, or that a dress was worn as a top, which confused the MC completely, leaving her with "well I don't actually know what she's wearing, but it does look nice don't you think? It didn't matter that the models parents kept asking them to walk up closer to them so they could see what their daughter/grand daughter was wearing. It didn't matter that exactly one minute before the last model was due on the catwalk she had a mental breakdown and refused to go out, because we raised enough funds to get the organisers entry into their ride, and we proved that fashion can make a big difference when you put heart and soul into it.

Thank you to everyone who came along to support and all those involved, we know it was disorganised, panicked and generally a three ring circus, but everyone seemed to enjoy the night and we achieved what we set out to do!

Fashion isn't just about pretty frocks, its about changing the world, one charity gala at a time.

She's not fat! She's SEXY!

I'd like to take this moment to say BRAVO! to Mr Peter Alexander, I've just received his new Winter catalogue in the mail and I think it's so refreshing to see a real girl on the cover of a magazine. Unlike the usual waif character we see gracing the cover of every advertorial on the planet, Peter has gone for a sexy, curvy, stunning girl to appear on his glossy this month and I couldn't be happier.

You would think that if a brand was trying to sell lingerie or in this case pajamas, there wouldn't be such a need to use these overtly thin creatures, and in fact if you're selling something that expresses a sexiness, would you not want a woman who is actually sexy? I don't know about you, but I think most guys (when considering what a sexy woman would look like) would describe a woman who actually looks like a woman, curves included. Or maybe not, maybe if you asked a man what their idea of a sexy woman is perhaps they would say Keira Knightly over say, Scarlett Johansson? Anyways, it's beside the point, the point is sexy has returned, well at least for Winter.

I just hope Peter doesn't revert back to the stick insects we saw last year frolicking in the sun and "apparently" eating paddle pops... I think there's something ironic about showing an underweight girl enjoying chocolates, candy and ice cream when we all know they wouldn't have actually swallowed a thing, but maybe that's just me.

I've put in some pictures of the stunning voluptuous creature featured as Peter's "it" girl this month. Enjoy!

Information, Participation, Collaboration

So last Wednesday night saw in another wonderful event held by the creative collaboration of Threaded, Brisbane Threads and Alumbra. "How to make a living in Fashion" was a huge success and from my point of view, a really beneficial event to attend. The panel was a mixed group of fashion professionals and included Blayke Jennings - City Beach Buyer, Josh Scacheri - Owner of Subfusco, Jessie Larcombe - Jesselle PR, Patricia Hart - MSIT Lecturer, Jono Cottee - Owner of Vanguard and Andy Wilson - Agent/Owner of Bad Art Agencies. The panel explained their roles and how they got into the industry and then answered the audiences burning questions on how to stand out from the crowd, support your creative art form and most importantly how to become successful in the industry. Blayke stressed the importance of connection in the industry and how important it is to continue to "network with the correct people", as there is nothing worse than collaborating and being involved with someone that has a bad reputation in the industry. Josh warned us of the pitfalls of the fashion world, claiming it to be "a bitch of an industry...It's hard...It's all about persistence". He reiterated that its not the glamorous world that we all think it is, but the roller coaster is definitely worth it, if you can handle the ride. Jessie from Jesselle PR left me with some advice that I think will stand me in good stead as I go through my career. "If you can handle the worst case scenario, then keep going", she was of course talking about business risks but I can't help but feel like that advice can be applied in all aspects of life. After the presentation I went and spoke to Jessie and after giving her my card I have since been approached by Jesselle PR to have my garments appear on channel 7 for the Gold Lotto girl. We'll see what the outcome is, but the point is I may have never been asked if I didn't put myself out there. This industry really is a bitch but I think when you have the right information and you're willing to participate in all the best opportunity's that come your way and you collaborate with the people who inspire you, nothing will stand in the way of your success.

How to Make a Living in the Fashion Industry

Tonight I'm off to a fashion panel, hosted by Brisbane Threads "How to Make a Living in the Fashion Industry" is an open event hoping to educate and inspire young creatives in Brisbane. The panel aims to answer all questions and queries from those wanting to branch out successfully in the Fashion industry.

I was lucky enough to win a double pass to the event after entering a competition, stating how I intended to make it in the industry. It would appear that the powers to be, deemed my answer worthy of two free tickets and a bottle of champas. I couldn't be more excited for tonight, as not only will I have the chance to mingle with Brisbane's Fashionistas but I am hoping the panel will answer some of the questions I have about this crazy industry.

Hopefully I'll find some reassurance that I will make it if I keep doing what I love and provided I'm willing to put in the hard yards (it sounds simple, but sometimes you just need someone who knows what they're talking about to tell you what you already know). This weeks been really tough as I struggled to put together new pieces on my free design day (Monday) and felt completely unmotivated to do anything "business-y" today.

Hopefully after tonight's injection of faith I'll be burning with passion once again, I think I'm getting a cold and my personal life seems to be rather complicated at the moment. Most likely all my own doing but it seems to be extinguishing my creative fire and I really need a light. Tonight should be the kick I need, can't wait to tell you all about it!

If you're looking for something amazing to do tonight be sure to come along, it's sure to be a great night.

To view the event and get all the details go here >> http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/event.php?eid=165240673524651&index=1

Ready, set, GLUE!

I have finally settled into a routine; after fluffing around manically and feeling as though I'm getting nothing done for the past several weeks, I now have an organised weekly schedule. Each day is focussed on one aspect of the business that I have to work on, Wednesdays are admin days (always the dullest of days), Thursday is sewing day and Mondays have now become my free design day. In short I spend the day in my design studio trying to create something new without the pressure of deadlines for a show or a shoot. I simply decide what I want to make and let my creativity run free. Mondays are becoming my favourite day of the week; I only seem to get Monday-itus on Tuesdays now when I have to get up at 7am for my 10hr day (at my real job).

So far, this free design day has proven to be both frustrating (when I try to force something that just doesn’t want to work) and liberating (when something comes together perfectly). The double edged sword of creativity does happen to cut me from time to time, but I never bleed for long. I think it must be the thrill of “the new” that gets me back on my horse.

The challenge this week was to craft something entirely different to my norm, in fact I decided not to make any clothing at all. I had a bunch of ribbon lying around that I had originally purchased for a dress, but after finding it too stiff to sew on to my garment, I had replaced it with something softer and simply thrown it in my hat box and forgotten about it. I always had the intention of creating new headpieces but hadn’t a clue where to start.

The process took me all day as I fiddled with glue, sewed ribbon onto material, pulled apart silk flowers and burnt myself on my lighter (only way to seal the end of a ribbon is to melt it). By about 5pm I finally had some success and although I ended up changing several designs and actually threw one out as it was so aesthetically unpleasant, I had a ball!

I’ve worn both the plain black and the black and pink clips now and both seemed to get a good response from several different admirers, so I’ll continue to experiment with this new headpiece fascination I have. I have some idea of what I’m doing now, so hopefully next Monday I’ll come out of my design day with several new pieces, then I can begin selling them, and perhaps then I might feel like a real designer.

Inspiration

What's yours?

I made this inspiration board for my new design studio, it includes everything and everyone who influences my creative way of life. I've got all my style icons including the classic starlets; Audrey Hepburn, Marylin Monroe and Bridgette Bardot, as well as my new favourites including; Rachel Bilson, Blake Lively, Charlize Theron and Jessica Alba and before you ask, yes I also have my favourite designers. My board is covered in Chanel, Dior, Balmain, Lanvin, Valentino, Alex Perry, Alannah Hill, Oroton and even Hilde Heim (after all she played such a massive influence in my life last year, i could hardly leave her off).

I feel like everyone should have inspiration boards on their walls, I intend to have many more as I get more time (they take about a day to put together). I feel being creative isn't something that just happens, you have to stimulate yourself, and you also have to want to be creative. I've transformed my whole room to evolve around my craft so that everyday I wake up I am involved and connected to what I'm doing.

I remember being told once that if you love what you do (your job) then you'll never feel as though you have worked for a day in your life. Fashion is my everything, it is my passion, my drive, my inspiration and my motivation to get out of bed everyday. I hope everyone feels this way about something as it truly is the only way to live life.

Don't just wait for inspiration to happen to you, surround yourself with it, and make it happen for yourself.

Market Madness

Sunday saw in my first taste of market life and although it was on a miniature scale (the suitcase rummage - nothing over about $20 tends to sell, most items are about $5 or less) it set the tone for the rest of the year. I am a converted market lover! I always loved attending them as a buyer but I can now honestly say (other than the sunburn) I really had the best day. Although I only sold a few things I covered the cost of my entry fee, parking in the city and managed to buy myself a nice new pair of shoes with the profits.
What I love most about the markets is the diverse range of people attending them. The group includes tourists looking to immerse themselves in Brisbane's market culture, city retail workers on their lunch breaks looking for a bargain, students looking for an op-shop find and of course other marketeers (they tend to buy more than anyone else).
My friend and I both bought some little market treasures, I found a pair of Witchery leather flats for $15 that had never been worn and had been originally $149, my friend bought a vintage silk dress and we scored a free portrait from a sketch artist, and a free pineapple-passion fruit-mint concoction which was a perfect way to end our lovely day in the sun. We were set up right next to a local musician whom we bought a CD off and I've been playing his four songs over and over in my car all day.
All in all I can say I can't wait till next months suitcase rummage and I'm even more excited to get into the Young Designer Markets at Southbank in a few months.
Next suitcase rummage will be the first Sunday of next month, hope to see you all there, it's a perfect way to spend your Sunday.

Melbourne

New Year’s saw me jet setting off to the majestic city where I oohed and awed over not only the beautiful clothes, shoes and bags (we’re talking Alexander McQueen, Christian Louboutin and Chanel just to name a few) but the amazing culture that embodies Melbourne for all it’s worth. Everything about Melbourne nonchalantly hushes “come explore me” and I found myself feeling as though I was wandering around with a giant ball of string, unraveling my journey through the maze known as Melbourne.

My first day (the day before New Year’s Eve) I meandered around the city center buzzing with excitement and posing in front of giant buildings, and audibly gasping at beautiful architecture till my mouth went dry. We hit up Lygon Street for an amazing dinner and I truly immersed myself in the rich culture Melbourne is so famous for. We drank sweet wine, nibbled on crunchy bruschetta, feasted on fresh pasta and bugs in a quaint Italian restaurant (one of many on Lygon Street) and after dinner we exploded onto the bubbling street and into another thriving restaurant. This was a Lebanese place where we smoked mango Shisha (while watching the boys cough and cry) and drank tea and shared more stories and laughter. Eventually we stumbled through the streets till we reached our hotel and collapsed into a giant cloud of a bed, and as I closed my eyes that night I knew it had happened, I had fallen head over heels in love, with Melbourne.

My second day was all about the fashion as I delved into the Chanel store (just for a peek) then literally wandered up and down Chapel Street till my feet refused to walk anymore. Along my way I found; a top shop dress for only $50, an alligator in a giant shoe and an appreciation for slightly milder weather (it was 36 degrees that day). After exhausting our options on Chapel we hoped onto a tram and were on our way to what my friend described as one of the best op shops in Melbourne, an absolute must apparently. I have to say I am a big fan of trams, but not a massive fan of trekking it across town to find every store in the street closed, including the fabled Op shop that we had travelled so far to see.

That night was Armin Van Buuren and I have to say I was shocked at how "music-festival-ish" people were dressed. Granted the set was 9 hours long, but I still had gone to the trouble of buying a new dress, doing my hair and attending to my makeup as if I were going clubbing (as I thought everyone would). I can't be completely disappointed mind you as I found two absolutely gorgeous boys in the drinks line, looking totally immaculate. They were dressed head to toe in Ralph Lauren, and I can say that they honestly lived up to my expectations for Melbourne's fashion, shame about the rest of the crowd, but I won't hold it against you Melbourne.

I can't say I saw a lot of outstanding fashion on my trip, but then again I went in peak holiday season and I imagine all those trendies that Melbourne is so well known for, were probably all holidaying at the beach somewhere. I took note that most of those invading the streets were all tourists. Next trip to Melbourne I shall ensure is in a non holiday time (and then the shops will actually be open too!)

All in all I can honestly say I can't wait for my next Melbourne trip for more exploring, more shopping and more good times.

Thanks for having me Melbourne,

Your newest fan.

<3 EC

Back in Action

Well, you will probably have noticed that I didn't win my 7 day challenge. Unfortunately a mixture of drink spiking, flue and no Internet caused me to fail the challenge like Charlie Sheen fails to be funny, my apologies to anyone who was genuinely wanting to read a weeks worth of blogs.

But I am now at home, waiting for my flue to get worse then get better and while stuck in bed and unable to attend to the rest of my life I figured I would blog. Main case in point is to follow up my rant about Vogue's December issue. It would seem that American Vogue heard my call and I was delighted to pick up the November issue and see a gorgeous Anne Hathaway looking ravishing in an Oscar de la Renta burgundy silk faille dress with red underlay, simply accessorised with her beaming smile and her captivating Bambi eyes. Thank you for this American Vogue, seems you could give me one thing that our home-grown couldn't, mind you I still have a small bone to pick with you.

Your segment "FLASH Talking Fashion - Tone Deft" made me feel a little queasy (and not just because I have the flue) I felt like this page was an ad for "overthetop-diets"! Not one 'stylish' woman on this page looks healthy, to make matters worse, none of them are smiling, this tells me "to be fashionable this season, you must look sick and wear neutrals" great style lesson, thanks for that.

To add to this I only have one other complaint but please understand that overall I really did love this issue but why, oh why, does EVERY shot taken, feature the models mouth open? I understand that this kind of sultry pout can be sexy and alluring, and most certainly this will sell product; but this is no a sexy pout (the Bambi shot on the front of Harper's is definitely excluded from the below rant, she looks gorgeous). The pout I'm referring to makes the model look one of two ways; either like a complete bimbo - incapable of breathing through her nose like a normal human being, or (and this is usually created when the head is titled forward and hair covers some part of the face) the girl from The Ring. I suppose I could point the finger at the Marc Jacobs campaign to demonstrate exactly what I'm talking about. I thought the idea of a stylist was to make the clothes look desirable, am I wrong? The new Marc Jacobs campaign (featured in the above mentioned issue of Vogue) feature what appears to be a nuclear Holocaust at Hogwarts, worst part of all? The clothes are actually quite pretty. Sadly though, an advertising campaign like this doesn't create desire in my eyes, just gives me bad dreams.

Ok, rant complete, I must add that I picked up the December issue of Harper's, and I have a few things to say.

One, thank you for my Christmas gift, my new tote will be perfect for my Summer beach trips. Secondly gorgeous cover, I am LOVING Bambi at the moment, and that Paris shoot is just perfect. Thirdly, thank you, thank you, thank you for the content. There are certain things I feel a fashion magazine needs to have in their December issue; Christmas gift guide (check), a party looks guide - as everyone has Christmas parties to attend (check) and some great articles - between putting up Christmas decorations and organising presents I always have down time and love a good read (check) well done Harper's, this issue may have just converted me.

Just one more thing before I go, whoever shot the Tiffany's campaign in the opening cover of this months Harper's, well done - it truly is a fairytale, and one I wouldn't mind experiencing this Christmas.

Which weather is better?

So it's now late November, but we're not feeling the usual sweltering hot summer days that Brisbane's November is known for, instead I am wearing pants to work, and cardigans over my summer dresses. This weird mix of seasonal style got me thinking, do people prefer one season to another because of what it allows them to wear? I am quite sure I've had this conversation with a few of my girlfriends before, and I have to admit that I was most certainly a winter girl all the way, up until about a year ago. I have always been a bit self-conscience about my body and so I was never a fan of summer due to the hot weather forcing you to wear less clothes and show more skin, definitely not something I was comfortable doing. I was infatuated with my winter wardrobe; layers of comfy cotton tees, scarfs, beanies, stockings, boots...What's not to love?! There is nothing better than coming home, out of the cold, having a hot bath and snuggling into warm pj's and slippers.

However, I have recently become accustomed to appreciate my summer wardrobe.

I always felt as though summer called for fake tans and very little else (in the way of clothing) so I never really "dug" it, but over the past year I had the rare opportunity to experiement with a casual wardrobe that was ruled less by purpose (work) and more personal style. Over the past few months I have been lucky enough to experience true casual summer style. This entails; putting a cute comfy summer dress on, picking some equally cute flats to match and walking out the door, all resulting in being ready in 10mins and being comfortable all day! A novel concept to some I'm sure, but well worth the revelation.

So I am curious as to what other peoples favourtie style season is, I'm definitly a lover of both, give me summer and sunshine, and winter and booties, either way I'm a happy little fashionista!

Flip Flop and Fancy Free

As you’ve most likely noticed the weather has finally decided to allow the sun to penetrate through those gloomy winter clouds, and give us a long awaited taste of summer. If you’ve been to Ikea lately you’ll have noticed that it is well and truly that magic time of the year where we all pull off our woolly toe socks, paint our toenails in the newest OPI tint and embrace summer in its entire thong wearing glory!
Now before you go grabbing for your $2 Coles pluggers that look more like a doggy chew toe than some form of shoe please obey the thong wearing theories put in place to ensure that you’re doing the humble Havi fashion justice.

Rule 1
Never wear your thongs with a bonds chestie and footy shorts unless you’re trying to look like a bogan, in which case be my guest.

Rule 2
Invest in a good brand, cheap thongs not only look cheap, but they will ruin your feet! It’s bad enough that thongs give you no support but thong blisters are generally a result of bad quality rubber and hurt like hell.

Rule 3
Now this is one that’s always going to be on the fence, but it’s definitely something I hate!!! Guys in jeans and thongs! It’s a no from me, if you’re wearing denim shorts then that’s fine, but jeans should only be worn with enclosed shoes. This is questionable for girls, but I don’t tend to wear jeans, so girls it’s up to you.

Rule 4
Painted toenails or clean feet are a must! Obviously guys, you don’t need to make sure your toes are painted but if you’re putting them on display, make sure they’re clean and tidy. Ladies, there is nothing worse than chipped, faded or dodgy nail polish when you’re wearing thongs. It only takes a few minutes to paint them, and as far as I’m concerned I don’t really dig no polish on girls toes, I don’t know why but I’m a firm believer in a bit of colour on your toes goes a long way, even if it’s a soft nude or peach.

Rule 5
Don’t wear thongs to dinner. The exception for this rule is if you’re going to a pool party or BBQ, otherwise it’s a no. Thongs are just not dinner appropriate, if a guy took me out for dinner and he was wearing thongs, I would most probably leave, but that’s just me.

These are only my fashion rules, and I’m very aware that there are thousands of people braking my rules all over the world, but if I can perhaps educate a few people on proper thong edicate, then I feel as though I’ve achieved something. If you have any other thong wearing rules, feel free to comment below :)

Seven Day Challenge - Day One

I’ve been told that as a writer, it’s imperative to write every day. Now this is not something I ever considered as something I would chose to do as a leisure activity. As I’ve just finished 3 years of university and sitting at a desk, writing, generally means I’m working on some piece of assessment. With this in mind sitting in my lunch break writing; naturally has a nasty, negative stigma attached to it; but this week is different - hopefully.

I was asked on Sunday by a well-known blogger friend, if it was something I had any intention of pursuing as a career and if I was ever going to take what I did (he says talent, I say venting) seriously. Well, where do you start with such a statement? I’m the first to argue that blogging is the new wave of journalism, as they reach a wider more imaginative audience than the mindless zombie audience stuck in front of a TV watching the evening news, but I never considered what I did, and what I wrote to hold much merit in the blogging world. My blog, to me, is simply a place for me to share my experiences and vent about the odd fashion dilemma here and there, and now I’m being asked if I want to take it seriously? Well, to be honest, I’m really not sure.

To say I’ve hit a small patch of limbo life would be an understatement. I’ve just finished uni but don’t yet have my results, broken up from a long term (2 and a bit years) serious relationship, escaped from the crazy world of retail and am now swimming blah-zahly along in a “I don’t know what I’m doing with myself” sea of oddness. Over the weekend I had a quick squiz on Seek to see if there are any decent jobs for someone with my “skillset” but after realizing there’s nothing in Brisbane and it was all becoming very gloomy I decided to run away from the situation and go shopping and then hit a bar with some friends. This, my dear blogger friend is my problem! Lack of motivation. I say “hey brain, we should go get a job and start our life” and it says in reply “OR we could go out and have a few wines and discuss silly nothings with friends, you’ve got a job and you only have to work three days a week, Shhh with all this career talk, you really think you can have a four day weekend when you have a career, you’re young, enjoy it! Let’s get drunk!” and I sheepishly nod my head and agree, next thing I know I’m waking up with yet another hang over.

You ask me, Mr Blogger friend, if I will ever take blogging seriously and will I pursue it as a career but unfortunately the only thing my little overworked brain wants to pursue is a bottle of wine and a dance floor. You told me to write every day, and I told you I wouldn’t know what to write, it most certainly won’t always be my best work, and I can guarantee I’ll run out of quirky metaphors to explain my bizarre feelings, but I’m going to endeavor to fulfill your wish- well at least for a week. You think this will expand my writing skills and make me a better writer, I hope you don’t end up eating your words, because mine won’t be all that tasty.

Seven day writing challenge, I choose you!

Melbourne Cup

Ahhh, Melbourne Cup would have to be one of my favourite days of the year, not only does it give you an excuse to drink bubbles and talk ponies, but the fashion is deemed just as important as the race itself! This I feel is a major achievement for the world of fashion, a win, if you will. I love the idea that women (and men) are taking weeks out of their busy schedules, planning, preening, shopping and collecting the perfect outfit to really turn heads on Cup day. Sure there are other races and derby days during the year, but Melbourne Cup is the one that puts Fashion on the Front page of the Sunday Mail.

So what did I do for Melbourne Cup? Well I had just finished uni the previous Friday, so finding a spare few hours on my hands I thought I would take a quick trip to Spotlight and make something for the first time in 14 weeks! Well I can tell you, there is nothing more contenting for me to finally, finally, FINALLY get to make something! My last semester at uni left me ridiculously stressed and too busy to even think about designing or making anything that I thought I'd most likely forgotten how, but thank you Spotlight, turns out I haven't forgotten at all.

I ended up deciding that a fascinator was more appropriate for our small office lunch than a hat. I meticulously picked through what remained of the DIY fascinator section; which at the time looked as though it had been attacked by a swarm of locusts, but it was reassuring to know that there were others creating there own Cup classics, and I wasn't alone in the "rather make one than buy one" realm. I decided rather than feathers, fabric and diamantees, Spring flowers were the order of the day and after poking around in the silk flower section decided on white Lillie's and some cute little red flowers (they look almost hibiscus-ish) and with that I took to a new project. A few hours later and they were all sewn on and I have to say, I didn't do a half bad job, in fact, I was rather pleased, especially when doing the math I worked out it had cost me half of what a store bought one would have (even if I had have bought it from Diva).

Needless to say I was the talk of the office at our obligatory cold chicken and cheap bubbles lunch, although I was slightly disheartened as no one else bothered with a hat, given that I work for an IT company, I really shouldn't have been surprised. Despite my being the only one "hatted" I couldn't have been happier! Everyone seemed to be extremely complimentary of my efforts, with several people not believing I'd made it myself. It was a lovely feeling to have my work appreciated and commented and it definitely stirred up my desire to create a new label. Now I have some time on my hands, I'm going to really get stuck into some more design work.

Creativity

It’s one of those things that if you’re this way inclined you will always find it, no matter what you’re doing. I’ve recently changed jobs (from a high-stress retail job to a cushy office job) and I can honestly say my first few weeks were very dull and as I’m not really designing much at the moment, I felt as though my creativity was slipping out of my brain. Last week I had a breakthrough, although I feel as though my uni life and personal life seems to be getting the better of me, and stealing all my thinking time, I managed to have an epiphany! I needed to restructure my work day to make sure my creativity didn’t lie dormant in a box in the back of my brain. So I found ways to add creativity to my relatively un-creative job. I know this will sound strange but while re-organising the stationary cupboard I found myself enjoying it. Making labels for everything, creating new space and making something lovely (organised) out of absolute chaos. Although I wasn’t creating something amazing I at least felt a form of creative buzz running through my veins, so it was a nice feeling knowing I haven’t completely lost it. I think it’s important for anyone that is a creative person to make sure you set aside creative time, even when you’re extremely busy, in fact it’s probably more important when your flat out to make sure you make time for the things you love. I’m going to make some earrings for a friend tomorrow as she bought me a lovely little head piece and has a massive appreciation for handmade things. Although I’d prefer to make her some slinky pj’s I really don’t have the time, but I know how much the earrings will mean to her, and I’m sure my creative brain will thank me for it. There is simply nothing like giving someone something knowing you’ve made it and created it yourself. Creativity is something that pushes humans forward, it’s what makes us continue to grow and learn as people and it’s something inside everyone, even if they don’t realise it.

Life, life and more life

For those that read my blog on a regular basis, you will have noticed a major decrease in the recent amount of posts; this is all due to an incredibly busy schedule. As uni starts to wrap up (final four weeks) and my life turns into an incredible amalgamation of sleep, uni, work, flue, the little things begin to slip out of my hands and I just can’t keep up with everything I usually do. I always find the first thing to go is my sewing, it kills me that I haven’t picked up a needle and thread for almost 12 weeks now, and my design brain only ever seems to work at the oddest of hours when I'm trying to get some sleep, or trying to relax for five minutes. The other thing I find I don't get time for is to write my blog, after writing thousands of words for essays on topics that may have no interest to me, it’s hard to then ask my brain and fingers to come up with something people might actually want to read. Not only that but my creative brain isn’t working so coming up with anything engaging and topical seems to be a challenge. As always though I'll just fill you in on how life has been going on my side of the pin cushion. The past two weeks have been jam packed with several shoots, for several different projects. I've been collaborating on other student projects as I think it’s so important to help out other students (I know how hard it can be to get help when you’re studying). One of the projects was to design a marketing strategy for an upcoming label, of course I jumped at the opportunity as it meant I would get someone coming up with a new logo for me as well as doing a new shoot with my clothes which I always love doing. The shots were totally different to anything I'd done before and was very moody and cinematic, I provided my garments I styled the clothes and accessories and models and did their hair, so all in all a very busy day for me. The second project was for a student run fashion magazine launching next month called ProtoType, so again I got to take my garments along to a shoot and style them and have them shot by an amazingly talented photographer. The setting was really quaint and romantic as it was on a lazy afternoon with the sun softly filtering in; we had op shop furniture, wooden floorboards and feathers galore! The people working on it had really good direction and this always makes the shoot less stressful and more enjoyable for everyone involved. In some respects these projects are a lot of work for me as usually I have to organise the model, make-up, hair, bring along the garments and accessories and then style them (usually while showing the model how to pose) but in the middle of it all I really don't mind. Even though I end up doing much more work than would usually be expected, and even though I have to stay up late organising and stressing over who will be where and when; when it all comes together it’s the best feeling. Seeing the photos used by the photographer for their portfolio, or receiving a copy of the magazine, or just getting positive feedback from the people you’ve worked with, makes it all worthwhile in the end. I love this industry and I love my job. I’ve included a few shots from the two student project shoots, enjoy 

VALENTINO!!!!

Ahh yes, Brisbane has once again been blessed with a fashion exhibition and I have to say we have well and truly been spoiled. I'm not going to try and explain what I saw as I don't think words could do the amazing garments justice, they really must be seen to be believed, and I urge you to go and see it, if you're a student its only $16 so there really is no excuse! Unfortunately my first viewing was a brief one as I had to ensure I still made it back to class on time but what I saw blew my mind. Anyone that knows even a little about the fashion world would know the name Valentino Garavani. He had been creating awe inspiring garments for 40 years, and even with his retirement his legacy lives on, and the new creative directors of the company continue to produce exquisite garments that celebrate the world of fashion in all its glory.
To say that the garments are well constructed would be a major understatement, with the exception of a couple of pieces; they are all put together by hand. You can literally see how much time, effort; love and commitment went into each piece. The hand embroidery on one pair of stockings screams how the hell did he do this?!? There are garments that have been hand painted after they were constructed (to make sure the pattern looked the best), garments encrusted with sequins, crystals and feathers and you can’t help but stare at them in awe. A Valentino garment represents the true meaning of Haute Couture; they are out of the ordinary, they use the best quality materials (silks, ostrich feathers and Swarovski crystals to name a few), they are works of pure imagination! The most important thing to me about a Valentino gown is what they represent; he was a designer that truly loved the female form. His dresses are designed around the body, they do not try to disguise the shape of a woman, they are designed to encapsulate her beauty, the garments wrap around the body like an infatuated lover.
I imagine wearing a Valentino gown would make a woman feel her best, sensual, powerful, intensely feminine and most importantly they would make you feel beautiful. Seeing Valentino reminded me why it is I’m in this industry, it’s not to get rich or go to swanky parties; it’s all about the love of it, the passion behind it, the creativity, the imagination, the power of making someone feel something from what I’ve created. Thank you Valentino, you truly are a master!

Monday, Style Session and Fashion Debate

If you want to see good quality pictures you can go on the MBFF website and look in their gallery. These are just pics from my phone :)

Monday was intensiano also. Starting with a 5 hour busy shift, I then headed to the boutique to meet my intern boss. We headed over to the State Library as we were booked for an afterhours debate of the relevance of couture in today’s fast fashion world and had planned to do have a discussion of what my future may hold before the event started. Fortunately we were a few hours early so dinner was in order. We sat and nibbled on calamari and sipped our vino while watching Westfield’s Style Session fashion parade which was surprisingly good, especially as we didn’t know it was going to be on. Although the clothes were relatively ordinary, the styling was immaculate and the stylists certainly should be congratulated for creativity.
After being thoroughly delighted with the impromptu fashion show we headed back to the State Library where we sat waiting nervously with a handful of random fashion students and other fashion enthusiasts (mainly all dressed in black) until such time as they opened the door to the amphitheatre where our great guest speakers sat like shinning gods. Introduced by Kelly Alderman, Fashion Editor of The Sunday Mail and facilitated by Alison Kubler, the panellists included; Margot Riley, dress historian and curator of the NSW State Library, Paul Hunt (the amazing) Couturier and fashion designer, Charlotte Smith, custodian of the Darnell Collection, Jonathan Ward also a fashion designer and our very own Kath Horton, QUT fashion Lecturer and one of my past teachers and inspirations. Needless to say I was in heaven! Not only did I have one of my favourite designers sitting in front of me discussing his view on the relevance of couture but after the informative evening I actually got to meet him. Yes ladies and gentlemen, I met PAUL HUNT!!! I have to say I was incredibly nervous walking up to him and introducing myself but I would never have forgiven myself had I have not done it. Although I was expecting a prickly encounter (as I am sure he would get over people walking up and introducing themselves, only to then stare at him like a star-struck loser) but he was positively charming. Luckily for me my intern boss actually knew him and as they chatted away like old friends I got to stand and stare with all my admiration bursting at the seams without seeming like a total crazed loon. We chatted about the evening that had just been, discussed Valentino and the past hat anthology which had graced Brisbane with its presence only a few weeks ago. He chatted about his new collection and I raved about his masterful skills. Unfortunately for me I was extremely brain-dead by this time of the evening so I’m sure all that came out of my mouth was gibberish, but my boss said she thought I was lovely and he seemed to be interested in what I had to say, perhaps she was just being kind.

Busy is Best

Every Brisbane fashionista plans their entire year around the month of August, for it holds all the beauty and glory of being a very busy fashion month in little Brisvegas. This year especially, as not only do we have MBFF drawing in the crowds, but the amazing Valentino exhibition has now taken over GoMA. Every night this week there seems to be a hive of activity and a fashion show or event to attend around the Southbank and City area. As a busy little fashion lover I thought I’d share what I’ve been up to and I’ll do another update later on in the week.
It all started on Sunday for me, as of 9am I had a photo shoot, not only was I in charge of styling the shoot, but I was also the hair department – no I’m not a hair dresser but I got three different looks styled within an hour! It was all very rushed as the photographer is due to head over to London in search of fame and fortune on Sunday, and this was his last chance to get some extra shots for his portfolio. We had a lot to play around with as not only had we been asked to shoot the latest collection from bridal designer Hilde Heim, but I had a chance to get some of my own pieces shot too. It was great to experiment with so many different styles and accessorize so many different looks. We had a mixture of bridal, lingerie (my stuff) and a large collection of street wear (some of my own clothes, some supplied by the models). I have to say that shooting in the boutique is much easier than shooting on location as there is room to spread everything out and really get the best out of every look, not only that but I find the models tend to be more relaxed when in a secure space and this leads to much better photos. So that was Sunday.

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